Boat Rescue Operations: Technician

July 22-25, 2018

Many agencies have boats, but do not have the specific skills to recognize their operating limitations. A number of recent incidents highlight the need for proficiency in handling a boat in rescue operations. This course, adapted from whitewater rafting skills, has been taught to fire personnel internationally. The class includes: trailering and launching procedures; boat design and specification; equipment placement; motor maintenance; flips; re-righting; emergency starts; rescue equipment; hydrology; boat performance; recovery and rescue skills; and, high-speed turns and pick-ups. Participants will train on the water and leave the course with an understanding of rescue equipment, team organization, standard operating guidelines, and victim physiology and water dynamics. The class is designed to meet the technician certification level of the International Rescue Instructors Association (IRIA) to include a special night drill, and final day written and practical testing competencies. Satisfactory completion requires an 80% cumulative score of six skill stations and a written test score of at least 80%.